Al Jefferson (knee) underwent successful surgery Thursday morning to repair a torn meniscus. Jefferson is expected to miss roughly six weeks.

Jefferson (knee) underwent successful surgery Thursday morning to repair a torn meniscus. Jefferson is expected to miss roughly six weeks.

Analysis:

An MRI on Wednesday revealed the injury, which will likely keep Jefferson out until around the All-Star break. It's a major loss for the Hornets, though Jefferson's numbers are down this season, and the team has found success in changing its style to incorporate more shooters on the floor. As a result, new addition Nic Batum is enjoying a resurgent season, while Marvin Williams, Jeremy Lamb and Jeremy Lin have all rounded into strong rotational pieces. Jefferson's absence will likely result in increased minutes for Williams at power forward, while both Cody Zeller and Frank Kaminsky should see boosts in playing time as well.